September is National Suicide Awareness Month and September 8th through 14th is Suicide Prevention Week. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background, and studies show that people feel less suicidal after talking with someone who listens without judgment.

People who are having suicidal thoughts can talk with VIA LINK’s crisis intervention specialists any hour of the day, any day of the year. They can call 504-895-5550 or chat online at VIALINK.org, and teens can text with us at 833-TXT-TEEN.

We also co-facilitate a free support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. For information contact Sherrard Crespo, [email protected].